2 dead in reported tire explosion at Delta facility at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in Atlanta

Two people were killed and one was injured when a tire burst at a Delta Air Lines facility at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Tuesday morning, officials said.

In a statement to NBC News, Delta Air Lines confirmed the deaths and injuries of employees.

“The Delta family is deeply saddened by the loss of two team members and the injury of another following an incident this morning at the Atlanta Technical Operations Maintenance facility (TOC 3),” the statement said. “We have pledged our full support to family members and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”

The airline said it was investigating the incident and working with local authorities. Delta did not specify which incident led to the deaths and injuries, but a union representing workers at the airport cited reports of a tire explosion.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, a union that represents airline workers across North America, issued a statement on the reported tire explosion and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

“As a union committed to the well-being and safety of our members and the broader community, we will offer our resources to anyone affected by this tragic event,” the union said. “We stand with Delta workers during this difficult time and call on Delta and the appropriate authorities to quickly launch a thorough investigation to determine how this happened.”

Early Tuesday morning, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the Atlanta Fire Department, Atlanta Police Department and airport crews were on site and “working diligently to resolve the situation.”

“I extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased Delta employees,” Dickens wrote on X. “My thoughts are also with those injured and I hope for their speedy and full recovery.”

Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport did not immediately respond to a request for comment.